Mark Plenke a journalism and communications instructor at Normandale Community College created 55423.info during his recent yearlong sabbatical envisioning the site as both a news outlet for the town of Richfield and a hands-on course for his students. Before launching the site (which takes its name from Richfield’s zip code) Plenke conducted a survey of 43 community members at a Fourth of July parade to gauge reader interests. The results showed an overwhelming interest in parks and recreation with 42 votes and safety and crime with 31 votes. Coverage of city government received 21 votes tied with gardening tips.